Addiction relates to substance use disorder (SUD), is a serious medical condition that requires a professional diagnosis and careful treatment for recovery. Characterized by uncontrollable misuse of substances such as nicotine, alcohol, prescription drugs, marijuana and other illicit drugs, addiction affects nearly 50 million people annually. Using substances as a coping mechanism in more frequent, higher amounts is indicative of a SUD, particularly if you’re unable to stop. 

It can be difficult to identify the signs of a SUD in yourself. Symptoms range from barely detectable to prominently affecting every aspect of your life. Losing your job, friends, family members, place on a sports team or academic standing are all ways your life can be drastically impacted by a SUD.  

If you’re wondering whether your substance use is unmanageable, take a moment to answer the following questions and determine whether seeking professional help would be beneficial. 

Substance Use Disorder Self-Assessment 

Answering the following questions may help you understand whether you are struggling with addiction: 

• Do you regularly use substances to cope with daily stressors, difficult emotions or physical pain?  
• Do you spend a lot of time getting, using or recovering from substances?  
• Is your work, school or home life suffering as a result of substance use? 
• Are you less likely to attend events that don’t involve substances? 
• Do you self-isolate by avoiding activities you used to enjoy, cutting school or staying home from work so you can use substances? 
• Do you feel guilt or shame around substance use? 
• Do you feel strong urges or cravings that are relieved when you use substances?  
• Do you have trouble cutting back or stopping substances?  
• Do you experience withdrawal symptoms until you use substances again? Symptoms may include: 
  • Shaking 
  • Irritability 
  • Anxiety 
  • Disturbing thoughts 
  • Headaches 
  • Stomach aches 
• Have you (or anyone around you) noticed your tolerance has increased and it takes more of the same substance or addition of another substance to achieve the same effect? 
• Do you become involved in risky behavior while under the influence (such as driving, unusual sexual activity, fighting, gambling, etc.)? 
• Are you experiencing relationship complications as a result of substance use? 
• Have you used more than the prescribed dosage of painkillers, opioids or other drugs, run out or requested a refill before the allotted date? 
• Do you see different doctors with false injuries or symptoms to acquire more prescription drugs? 
• Have you been involved in illegal activity or trouble with the law for substance use, possession or distribution?  

Next Steps to Getting Help for an Addiction 

If your answer is “yes” to any of these questions, you may be dealing with addiction. Know that you are not alone, recovery is possible and help is always available. 

Discovery Addiction Services has eight picturesque centers across five states. Each center provides measurement-based care with unique programming: 

• Brookdale – Pennsylvania 
• Casa Palmera – California 
• Cliffside Malibu – California 
• Cliffside West Los Angeles – California 
• New Hope Ranch – Texas 
• PARC – Texas 
• Pinelands – New Jersey 
• Prosperity – Washington 

Reach out to one of our caring advisors today so we can help you find the most effective, supportive, nonjudgmental treatment options for your needs.